Iraq's media regulator sets new guidelines for guest broadcasts

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Media and Communications Commission announced new guidelines on Friday governing guest appearances on media outlets, saying the rules were drafted under Article 38 of the constitution. The commission said the framework is intended to safeguard freedom of expression and press freedom while strengthening the country's democratic environment and ensuring public debates follow professional standards. According to the commission, the regulations were developed within a commitment to freedom of opinion and expression. The new guidelines have been distributed to media organizations, and the commission said it will oversee their implementation across the sector. The commission added that it has been working to establish clear rules for the inclusion of journalists and guests in broadcasts. It described the aim of the new framework as supporting the delivery of accurate, balanced and measured content to the public. The commission said it will closely monitor the rollout of the guidelines, without providing additional details on enforcement mechanisms or timelines.